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119*119 This psalm is a Hebrew acrostic poem; there are twenty-two stanzas, one for each successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Each of the eight verses within each stanza begins with the Hebrew letter named in its heading.

Aleph

1Joyful are people of integrity,

who follow the instructions of the Lord.

2Joyful are those who obey his laws

and search for him with all their hearts.

3They do not compromise with evil,

and they walk only in his paths.

4You have charged us

to keep your commandments carefully.

5Oh, that my actions would consistently

reflect your decrees!

6Then I will not be ashamed

when I compare my life with your commands.

7As I learn your righteous regulations,

I will thank you by living as I should!

8I will obey your decrees.

Please don’t give up on me!

Beth

9How can a young person stay pure?

By obeying your word.

10I have tried hard to find you—

don’t let me wander from your commands.

11I have hidden your word in my heart,

that I might not sin against you.

12I praise you, O Lord;

teach me your decrees.

13I have recited aloud

all the regulations you have given us.

14I have rejoiced in your laws

as much as in riches.

15I will study your commandments

and reflect on your ways.

16I will delight in your decrees

and not forget your word.

Gimel

17Be good to your servant,

that I may live and obey your word.

18Open my eyes to see

the wonderful truths in your instructions.

19I am only a foreigner in the land.

Don’t hide your commands from me!

20I am always overwhelmed

with a desire for your regulations.

21You rebuke the arrogant;

those who wander from your commands are cursed.

22Don’t let them scorn and insult me,

for I have obeyed your laws.

23Even princes sit and speak against me,

but I will meditate on your decrees.

24Your laws please me;

they give me wise advice.

Daleth

25I lie in the dust;

revive me by your word.

26I told you my plans, and you answered.

Now teach me your decrees.

27Help me understand the meaning of your commandments,

and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds.

28I weep with sorrow;

encourage me by your word.

29Keep me from lying to myself;

give me the privilege of knowing your instructions.

30I have chosen to be faithful;

I have determined to live by your regulations.

31I cling to your laws.

Lord, don’t let me be put to shame!

32I will pursue your commands,

for you expand my understanding.

He

33Teach me your decrees, O Lord;

I will keep them to the end.

34Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions;

I will put them into practice with all my heart.

35Make me walk along the path of your commands,

for that is where my happiness is found.

36Give me an eagerness for your laws

rather than a love for money!

37Turn my eyes from worthless things,

and give me life through your word.*119:37 Some manuscripts read in your ways.